Pulmonary barotrauma

Pulmonary barotrauma occurs when the lungs experience damage due to rapid changes in air pressure, such as during scuba diving or flying. As a person ascends or descends, the pressure around them changes quickly, and if the lungs can't adjust properly, air in the lung spaces can expand or rupture. This can lead to serious issues like air leaks into surrounding tissues or even the bloodstream. Symptoms may include chest pain, difficulty breathing, or coughing up blood. Prevention involves equalizing lung pressure during ascent or descent by exhaling or using specific breathing techniques.